A Statement from the Marlboro Jewish Center - June 2, 2020
 

A MESSAGE FROM RABBI PONT ON THE DEATH OF GEORGE FLOYD

The Lord God formed man from the dust of the earth. He blew into his nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living being. (Genesis 2:7)

In creating humanity God gave us breath, a divine gift. This makes George Floyd’s last words - I can’t breathe – all the more tragic and painful.

The ancient sage Rabban Shimon ben Gamliel taught, “The world is sustained by three things: by justice, by truth, and by peace.” (Avot 1:18) To effect true peace, we must strive for a just society for all people.

I believe that violence and other extreme behaviors are not the answer. Rather let this be a time of teshuvah or soul searching for us as Americans. With every breath, in partnership with other people of faith, may we work to realize Rabban Gamliel’s vision: a world of justice, truth, and peace.

Keyn yeh’i ratzon, may it be God’s will.

Shalom,
Rabbi Pont